Question
My wife gave birth to a boy two days ago, but he has developed jaundice over the past two days. Since he was born prematurely, I’m a bit worried. How should I care for him to make him more comfortable?
Answer
Hello, if your baby develops jaundice, it is a normal phenomenon. Generally speaking, premature babies are more prone to jaundice. However, if the jaundice persists for more than 10 days, it is considered an abnormal condition and requires timely medical intervention. To help you care for your baby, here are some suggestions:
- Ensure your baby receives adequate food and fluid intake to maintain good nutrition and hydration.
- Allow your baby to get plenty of sunlight. Exposure to gentle morning or afternoon sunlight can help promote the fading of jaundice.
- Pay attention to your baby’s body temperature regulation. Make sure the room temperature is comfortable, avoiding overheating or undercooling your baby.
- Monitor your baby’s urination and defecation to ensure they are normal. If your baby’s jaundice continues for more than 10 days, it is advisable to consult a doctor promptly. The doctor may prescribe an oral liquid anti-jaundice medication or blue light therapy for your baby. Typically, babies will gradually recover within 7-10 days after treatment and will not affect other functions. Additionally, you can start supplementing vitamin AD for your baby half a month after birth to promote healthy growth. I hope this information is helpful to you. If you have any more questions, please consult a doctor promptly.